Apple has released a fresh firmware update for the AirPods Pro 2, bringing an anticipated set of Hearing Health features aimed at improving audio accessibility for users. This update, numbered 7B19, follows through on Apple’s promise from June’s WWDC 2024 event, where the company unveiled three core features in its Hearing Health suite: Hearing Test, Hearing Aid, and Hearing Protection. These are designed to assess hearing, assist with hearing needs, and offer audio safeguards in environments with high noise levels.
The Hearing Aid feature, approved by the FDA in September, is a key addition aimed at assisting individuals with mild to moderate hearing loss. Reviews published on October 21 confirm the hearing features will be available to all users starting October 28, alongside the iOS 18.1 update, which will ensure the AirPods Pro 2 remain compatible with both the hearing features and Apple Intelligence updates.
The firmware update is installed automatically when AirPods Pro 2 are in their charging case and connected to an iOS device. With no manual installation required, users will see the firmware applied seamlessly, allowing easy access to this enhanced suite of health tools.